I bought my '78 on June 2nd. A few days ago I went to turn it over but all I got was a "clunk" and then it was dead (no lights, nothing). I used jumper cables to get it going. It started right up without any hesitation every time after that...until last night when it happened again. I turned the key, heard a "clunk" and then it was totally dead again. I called the previous owner to ask if there's been any problems with this but he swore it's never done this to him before (maybe he's telling the truth, maybe not). I don't want to start right off by calling a mechanic. How should I go about discovering and dealing with the problem?

 

clean the connections at the battery. wire brush both the battery and wire connecters. if that doesnt work check/clean the wires at the distribution box (should be red plastic bx with wires going to it on the pas. side wheelwell) for any sign of corrosion or heat. also wires at the starter could be lose or in need of cleaning.

 

OK, I did all of that, but what seems to work is pulling the positive wire into a position that is above the connector. When I let the wire down, the connection seems to be lost, I pull it up again and the car can be started. The connector is screwed in as tight as I can get it, so it's not that. A short in the wire maybe?

 

if i understand u right then i would say the wire is bad. is it a side post or top? can u post a pic.

 

Replace cable or at least put on a new cable end and be sure to clean the wire. May also be a broken connection inside the battery. Be very careful cuz this is a recipe for an explosion at the battery. You are almost certain to have a bad connection at the battery. Mark

 

You were right. That's what it turned out to be (bad connection at the battery). I just joined a classic car club and I've been getting a lot of help and advise with the car.